Computer giant announces major refreshes to Integrity server and HP-UX ranges

HP will today launch a major refresh of its Itanium-based Integrity servers and HP-UX 11i operating system, arguing that performance enhancements mean customers have no reason to wait until the launch of Intel's delayed Montecito Itanium chip to upgrade.

The three new Integrity servers – rx7640, rx8640 and an enhanced version of its Superdome product – were to include Intel's 64bit Montecito chip. But because Montecito has been delayed until later in the year, the new Integrity line will initially ship with the Madison Itanium processor, which is already available.

Manuel Martull of HP insisted that the modular design of the servers' new sx2000 chipset, codenamed Arches, would allow firms to easily slot in Montecito when it becomes available, to replace or run alongside Madison.

Martull added that currently the performance of sx2000 systems is still 30 percent better than previous Integrity servers.

The new HP-UX 11i also delivers improved virtualisation and availability, said HP's Nick van der Zweep. "We're delivering more flexible capacity; the ability to move computing resources as you need them; secure availability; and simplified management capabilities," he added.